The Diagnosis and Management of Mallet Finger Injuries.

BACKGROUND

Mallet finger is a common injury of the extensor tendon insertion causing an extension lag of the distal interphalangeal joint.

METHODS

We reviewed the most current literature on the epidemiology, diagnosis, and management of mallet finger injuries focusing on the indications and outcomes of surgical intervention.

RESULTS

Nonoperative management has been advocated for almost all mallet finger injuries; however, complex injuries are usually treated surgically. There is still controversy regarding the absolute indications for surgical intervention.

CONCLUSIONS

Although surgery is generally indicated in the case of mallet fractures involving more than one-third of the articular surface as well as in all patients who develop volar subluxation of the distal phalanx, a significant advantage of surgical management even in those complicated cases has yet to be clearly proven.